Waukegan Beach Ends a Spectacular Summer, But There’s Still Plenty to Do
Waukeganites, both young and old all can agree on one thing: Waukegan’s beach is one of our most treasured assets.
These last two years, we have seen our beach increase access for all our residents and visitors. Last year the drop-off area was expanded, and this summer saw the introduction of the roll-out accessibility mat for wheelchair access to the beach. There are also special beach wheelchairs available that are free of charge. These significant upgrades are directly tied to the City’s goal of improving the City of Waukegan as a summer destination.
Through grant money, the City has a full-time lakefront coordinator, which has empowered the City to accomplish all these improvements and additional improvements planned for next year. As schools are back in session and it will soon be fall, the time for swimming in Lake Michigan is soon coming to a close. But that doesn’t mean our residents and our visitors still can’t take advantage of things to do on Waukegan’s 400 acres of lakefront.
Below, we list some ideas for spending September down at the lakefront.
Yoga at the Beach
Every Saturday morning in September from 8 am to 9 am at the Stiner Pavillion
Beach Games
Playing beach games in the fall is great because you’re less likely to get thirsty, sunburned, or walk on super hot sand. Instead, you can enjoy nice cool weather, fewer people around, and have a reason to drink hot chocolate after you’re done. Some fun beach games to play in the fall are Frisbee, spike ball, beach bowling, soccer, or just throwing around a frisbee like in the old times.
Sand Castle Building Contests
You could try building sand cities. Grab some strong shovels and big buckets, and start crafting impressive sand cities that would impress even urban designers. With fewer people around, you’ll have more room to construct your creations. Plus, there’s a calming feeling to getting your hands dirty, even when the weather is cooler.
Go for a Run
Lots of people think that running on the beach is the most enjoyable type of running. The sensation of sand beneath your feet and the sound of the waves splashing nearby is super refreshing, to the point where you might not even want to bring your headphones along. Autumn is a great season for beach running because you can skip the really hot weather and strong sunlight that usually happens in the summer. But make sure you drink enough water, even if you don’t feel as hot – staying hydrated is still important.
Painting
Imagine spending a calm afternoon at the beach in the fall, like setting up your painting area. The colors all around you change, and the sunlight looks so pretty – it’s like a special kind of light that makes you feel creative. Even if you’re just starting to paint, the beauty of the beach will make you want to create something amazing. If you don’t want things to get too messy, bring a sketchbook and your favorite pencils or charcoals to draw with. And don’t forget a comfy beach chair, a thermos of tea, and a soft blanket – with all these things, you’ll have a perfect spot to make your unique artwork.
Picnicking
Having a picnic at the beach in the fall is super fun and simpler than doing it in the summer. Because it’s not too hot, you don’t have to worry as much about bringing foods that might spoil. Also, since you might not stay at the beach for the whole day, you can bring more food in your picnic basket. Bring yummy sandwiches, tasty fruits and veggies, pie, and apple cider for a great fall beach picnic.
